Sexyy Red Apologizes For AI Image of MLK After Backlash From His Daughter

Sexyy Red has issued an apology to Bernice King after facing backlash for sharing an AI-generated image of herself alongside Martin Luther King Jr.

Rapper Sexyy Red recently faced backlash after posting an AI-generated image that depicted her next to civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The post elicited a swift wave of criticism, including a sharp reaction from Bernice King, Dr. King’s daughter, who described the image as “deliberately offensive” and “disrespectful” to both her father’s legacy and her family.

The controversy began when Sexyy Red reposted the AI-edited photo on her social media. The “Get It Sexyy” rapper posted an AI-created image of herself holding hands with the late Rev. Dr. King on X this past Monday, coinciding with Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Sexyy shared another fake image, showing her with a bundle of cash while participating in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in Washington, D.C., alongside Rev. Dr. King. At this significant march, where presented his famous “I Had a Dream” speech.

“Happy MLK Day!!” Sexyy wrote as the caption for the image, which also features Chief Keef next to a sign that reads “G.B.E. [Glory Boyz Entertainment] F— TRUMP.”

The photo sparked immediate backlash from fans and civil rights advocates alike. However, Bernice King’s powerful statement drove home the gravity of the situation. Taking to social media, Bernice condemned the image, writing:

“This is intentionally distasteful, dishonoring, deplorable, and disrespectful to my family and my father,”  MLK’s youngest daughter began.

She also added that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was not around to defend himself because he put his life on the line to improve living conditions for people like Sexyy Red.

Bernice King continued, “Who is not here [because] he was assassinated for working for your civil and human rights.”

The rapper got the message and deleted the AI-generated post. Acknowledging the backlash, Sexyy Red quickly issued an apology to Bernice King and the public, admitting that her actions were unintentional but insensitive. The rapper said she meant no disrespect by sharing the image and fully understood Bernice’s perspective.

“You ain’t wrong, never meant to disrespect your family. My apologies,” Sexyy Red wrote.

Bernice King’s response was a poignant reminder of her ongoing commitment to protecting her father’s legacy. As the CEO of The King Center, she has tirelessly worked to honor Dr. King’s memory and ensure his message of nonviolence and equality is not distorted or diminished.